When you have a driveway alarm, you feel a little secure knowing that you have a perimeter security to give you some peace of mind. Depending on your wants or needs, there are many driveway alarms that will do an effective job, but you need to pick the right one for your home. You could have a large home or perhaps one with a small driveway, so it all depends on several factors. Criminals are not stupid, since they will weigh their options on whether to target someone. If they notice that you have some system in place, they would not want to risk getting caught. Let’s take a look at how to choose a wireless driveway alarm.

1. Deciding The Transmission Distance

You need to know the minimum distance between the indoor sensor (or receiver) and the vehicle sensor. A really good sensor can transmit signals up to a thousand feet in an open area and about 100 – 300 feet through walls. Remember also that the shorter the distance, the more accurate it will be.

2. What Do You Want To Detect?

This is something you have to consider wisely, otherwise you will be detecting everything and have many ‘false’ alarms daily. Driveway alarms come in various designs. Some can detect large objects, some small and some will detect both. Before you head off to get yourself a device, sit down and plan these things first. This gives you time to think, otherwise you will be hurried when you are in the store and something will pop into your head after you buy it. You’ll then go, “Oh god!”, so plan first. Some sensors will ignore animals that are under forty or fifty pounds.

3. Check The Features

Consider the features that you think are important to you when shopping for your driveway alarm. Some can detect small children and pets and even insects! Some will detect a visitor, both welcome and unwelcome. Consider all features based on your needs so that when you do pick one, it will perform to your satisfaction.

4. Consider Sensors

Many driveway alarms make use of passive infrared rays which are ideal for short distances. These sensors are not only accurate but they also offer a wide area of vision, easily detecting vehicles, people and animals. If someone wants multiple alarms, this method is cost-effective. Then you have the metal-detecting alarms that will only detect metallic objects such as cars. Another sensor known as a break beam sensor can be used by securing a perimeter or even cover a larger area.

5. Be Aware Of Interference

Remember that these sensors will not be able to perform to the best of its ability if there are too many obstacles which may cause an interference of the signals. If you can get rid of several sources of interference, then that will take care of the problem. However, sometimes you cannot remove a problem source in which case, you may need multiple sensors.

The best thing to do is to talk to the professionals as they will be able to help you and offer solutions to problems. The biggest issues you may face may have to do with obstacles. However, the pros will know how to handle it as they have seen it all before. Ask questions or perhaps have them come around so that you can get the best and right system for your home.